Pinna abnormalities and low-set ears

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Medical findings based on ear anatomy

Ear abnormalities

Pinna of the newborn ear

Overview

Treatment

Pinna abnormalities and low-set ears

Alternative Names:

Low-set ears
Call your health care provider if:

Call if you notice abnormally shaped or positioned ears.

In most cases, pinna abnormalities are found by a health care provider during the first well baby exam. This exam is usually performed at the hospital, if that is where the baby is delivered.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

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The doctor will ask medical history questions, such as:

Are you aware of any other physical abnormalities?
Is there any family history of having abnormal-shaped ears?
Is there a family history of any of the disorders associated with pinna abnormalities and low set ears?

To determine if the pinna is abnormal, the doctor will conduct a series of measurements with a tape measure. Other parts of the body will be measured, including the eyes, hands, and feet, to determine if other abnormalities are present.

All newborns should have a hearing test. A child with pinna abnormalities should certainly have a hearing test, if he or she hasn't already. Examination for any mental development changes may be performed as the child grows. Diagnostic tests that may be performed include a chromosome analysis.

No treatment is needed for pinna abnormalities, as they do not affect the hearing. However, sometimes cosmetic surgery is recommended.